The Health Benefits Of Spices

By Terrie Joyner


We all know that adding spices to our foods adds flavor. Furthermore, they are an excellent alternative for boosting taste without adding extra sodium, which if eaten in high amounts can increase the likelihood of developing high blood pressure. While many of us use spices in our everyday cooking, most do not know of the health benefits of spices. Certain spices have the extra benefit of warding off disease, infection, and even boosting metabolism.

Cardamom, a popular spice used in Indian foods, is high in potassium, calcium and iron. These are often vitamins and minerals that women are deficient in. Potassium helps to regulate heart rate and blood pressure, iron helps red blood cells form and calcium strengthens the bones. Cardamom is antioxidant rich and may help to ward off disease. It can be used in both savory and sweet dishes that are sure to please everyone.

Fennel seeds are sweet and used in a variety of dishes. They also contain anti-oxidants that can help eliminate the free radicals that are responsible for producing cancer. It is also high in fiber which aids in digestion and a healthy colon. It contains vitamins and minerals like copper, iron, calcium, potassium and manganese. It protects against infection and even lowers cholesterol.

Cumin is great in sauces and also contains anti-oxidants known to ward off disease and infection. It also helps reduce gas in the intestines and aids in digestion by increase intestinal motility.

Cloves have a multitude of health benefits. Cloves can be added to your favorite baked goods like cakes or cookies, and are also good in your favorite Asian meals. The essential oil in cloves is used as an antiseptic and anesthetic so it helps reduce pain during dental procedures and prevent infection. It works as an anti-inflammatory and helps to prevent gas from building in the intestines.

Speaking of garlic, it has so many health boosting benefits; it would be crazy not to add it to your nutritional intake. It has anti-fungal properties as well as being an anti-viral and anti-bacterial. It can help battle infections and stop blood clots from forming. So if you love garlic, go ahead and indulge. Put it in pasta sauces, add it to pizza, or roast it along with your vegetables.

Rosemary pairs well with chicken and can be added to a dry rub to create flavor in all poultry's. It also prevents the gene mutations that are responsible for the formation of cancers. It may also help to ward off a heart attack by preventing blood vessel damage.

Spices are great for adding flavor, but the health benefits of spices make them important to add to your everyday nutritional intake. For those who suffer from chronic conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, or painful arthritis, they can help to alleviate pain, reduce blood pressure and maintain blood sugar levels. Many spices can aid in decreasing the chances for obtaining life-threatening illnesses like cancer. Adding spices to your meals may help in maintaining a healthy body and increase longevity and enjoyment of life. So for great tasting food and increased health, make sure to make good use of that spice rack sitting on your kitchen counter and spread the good news to those you love and want to share in the health benefits of spices.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment